MOHR Outstanding Disability Employer Award

Mike Acheson, owner of Sammy’s Pizza in Cloquet, received the 2018 MOHR Outstanding Disability Employer Award on Tuesday, October 16th in recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Danae Lambert of Pinewood nominated Mike for the award because he has consistently gone above and beyond the duties of an employer since he began hiring his employees from Pinewood, even going so far as to provide transportation to and from work for them when needed.  Mike is actively involved in the lives of his employees, not only during working hours, but during their time off as well. He includes them in family activities and provides community opportunities and experiences that otherwise may not be available to them. Mike opened Sammy’s Pizza in Cloquet in 2000. A few years later, he began hiring people with disabilities through Pinewood. He has employed several Pinewood employees for as many as 15 years and has photos of him and the employees dating back to 2004. What began as an effort to cover 14 dishwasher shifts a week turned into something far more rewarding, Mike said. “They have become a part of this place, and a huge part of my life.  I will continue to do this as long as I am alive.” Pinewood is extremely proud to partner with Sammy’s Pizza in helping to provide customized employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities. A very sincere congratulations, Mike!